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Interview Questions for Creative Professionals: How to Answer the Usual Suspects

Interview Questions for Creative Professionals: How to Answer the Usual Suspects

By Paul Love January 9, 2018 at 10:03am

Preparing to meet with an employer? Plan to field the following interview questions.

How do employers and recruiters assess applicants to make sure they're a good fit for a particular creative job? How do they separate the qualified from the unqualified? How do they make sure during the job interview that candidates know their stuff?

It all starts with asking the right interview questions. So, if you're a creative job seeker or freelancer looking to land work, pay attention. Here are some of the most common interview questions hiring managers ask:

What projects are you working on right now?

Whether you're a freelancer or looking for a full-time job, this interview question can uncover whether or not you're staying busy and working on projects to improve your craft. Use your answer to speak to your ambition, expertise and motivation.

What tech tools do you use on a daily basis?

This interview question demonstrates your willingness to stay sharp. Are you up on the latest technologies? Hiring managers are looking to gauge how strategically you approach your work as well as whether the company can support your equipment needs.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Many employers believe that people who are passionate about interests outside the office typically perform better on the job. Hiring managers want to know what drives you – whether it's mentoring kids or writing poetry. Who knows, maybe you'll have a hobby or interest in common.

What do you think of our marketing/creative materials?

Hiring managers want to know that you have done your research and are familiar with their work – and that you have an educated opinion. Share your honest thoughts clearly, tactfully and succinctly.

What are your main sources for industry news?

Managers want to know that you're up on industry trends and that you draw inspiration from multiple sources. In addition to trade publications that focus on your area, don't forget to mention any creativity-oriented websites, blogs and social media accounts you follow.

So there you have it, some insight about how creative industry recruiters and hiring managers pick out the best creative talent from the rest. We've given you a handful of common interview questions – the answers you respond with are up to you. Best of luck!